Your patio is an important part of your outdoor space, providing an area for people to gather and spend time together enjoying each other’s company. Knowing how to keep it in good repair will help you get the best use out of your patio for years to come—and add value to your home.
What causes damage to patios
To an extent, how long a patio lasts depends on the material it’s made out of, and the amount of use it gets. But even the most durable patios, like those made out of concrete, and even those that don’t see a lot of wear and tear from heavy traffic, are still exposed to the elements.
For homeowners in southeastern Pennsylvania, this means exposure to a range of temperatures and conditions, from the searing heat of summer to the freezing temps of winter, with all of the rain and sleet and snow the seasons bring. Over the years, these environmental factors will take a toll on a patio, and if it’s a place that sees a lot of activity the wear and tear will show even sooner.
Why it’s important to keep your patio in good repair
There are lots of reasons homeowners will want to keep their patios in good repair, and one of the most obvious is curb appeal. Whether you are planning on selling your home or not, the look and therefore value of your property will be affected by the condition of your patio.
Beyond curb appeal and the value a well-maintained patio adds to your home, there are also safety issues to consider. Patios that have fallen into disrepair present a hazard to your family and to visitors who can trip or fall on uneven surfaces, opening you up to potential harm and possibly even liability.
Signs your patio needs to be repaired
So how do you know if your patio needs to be repaired or replaced? There are several signs your patio may be sending you an SOS, but here area few of the most important to be on the lookout for:
1. Your patio is cracked. When cracks appear in a patio it’s a sure sign that repair or possibly replacement is needed. In addition to creating a hazard, cracks will only worsen with time and continued exposure to the elements, so it’s important to take action at the first sign of cracking.
2. Water is collecting on your patio. Take a look at your patio after it rains. Is there standing water collecting in certain spots? If you see water pooling on your patio, it means that the water is not properly draining away. If left unrepaired, this can cause serious damage, which leads to more costly repairs.
3. Your patio looks like it’s seen better days. Sometimes damage to a patio isn’t as dramatic as a large crack, but is more subtle as it shows in signs of aging. Regular wear and tear on a patio is impossible to avoid, and when yours starts to show telltale signs of unevenness, fading, or other changes due to aging, it’s best to have the patio evaluated so that you can care for it when repairs may still be minimal.
Keeping your patio in good repair means you’ll have a safe and enjoyable outdoor space that will add value to your home. For questions about your patio,contact Modern Landsdapes, your trusted landscaping professional, today!
